As the trusted property experts across Essex and Suffolk, Boydens is committed to giving home-movers clarity, especially at a time when national speculation and seasonal trends are clouding the market. The latest Rightmove House Price Index (released 17th November 2025) provides one of the clearest indicators of shifting dynamics across the UK housing landscape, and the message this month is unmistakable:

The market is hesitating under Budget speculation, yet opportunities for buyers and sellers remain firmly in place.

Below, we break down the key insights you need to know.

A Larger-than-Normal Price Adjustment as Sellers Compete for Attention

According to Rightmove, average new seller asking prices fell by 1.8% in November to £364,833, a sharper drop than the typical 1.1% decline usually seen at this time of year. This marks the steepest November fall since 2012. 

This shift is being driven by two key factors:

1. A Surge in Supply Across the Market

The number of homes available for sale is at a decade-high, creating stronger competition and increasing pressure on sellers to price realistically.

2. A “Budget Hiatus” Holding Buyers Back

Uncertainty surrounding potential property tax changes is influencing buyer behaviour, particularly at the upper end of the market.

Notably:

• Sales agreed for £2m+ homes are down 13% year-on-year due to mansion tax concerns.
• Sales of homes between £500k–£2m are down 8%, partly fuelled by rumours around stamp duty and capital gains tax.
• The under-£500k market, representing around 75% of UK activity, has proven more resilient, with sales agreed only 4% lower than last year. 

Despite these challenges, the year-to-date picture remains positive, with sales agreed up 4% compared with 2024.

Buyers Are in a Stronger Position Than Before

With the seasonal slowdown arriving early this year, the market has tipped decisively into buyer-friendly territory.

Rightmove reports that:

• 34% of all listed homes have had at least one price reduction,
• with the average reduction standing at 7%, the highest rate since February 2024. 

This means motivated sellers are increasingly sharpening their pricing strategies to attract committed buyers.

Mortgage affordability is gradually improving too. The average two-year fixed rate has eased to 4.41%, down from 5.06% a year ago, helped by rising wages and hopes of a further Bank Rate cut in December. 

Regional Picture: Variation Across the UK

Page 6 of the Rightmove report shows that regional shifts remain uneven, but broadly negative month-on-month:

• East of England (Boydens’ core region):
  • Prices down 1.4% MoM
  • Down 0.6% YoY
  • Average days to secure a buyer: 70 days
• London:
  • Prices down 2.4% MoM
  • Down 2.1% YoY

These regional trends underline the importance of hyper-local expertise, as broad national slowdown figures do not always reflect opportunities at individual postcode level. 

First-Time Buyer Affordability: Marginal Improvements but Challenges Remain

Data from page 7 of the report shows a slow but steady improvement in affordability for first-time buyers:

• Mortgage payments (10% deposit, 90% LTV) are gradually easing.
• However, asking prices for typical first-time buyer homes continue to outpace wage growth in many areas.

This reinforces the importance of accurate valuations and strategic negotiation, services Boydens prides itself on delivering for buyers and sellers alike. 

Boydens’ View: What This Means for Your Move

Despite the noise around the Budget, the core message is clear:

For Sellers:

Pricing competitively and positioning your home effectively is critical. With supply high and buyer attention diluted, professional marketing, accurate valuation and negotiation expertise are essential to securing a strong sale.

For Buyers:

This is one of the most opportunity-rich markets in recent years. Increased stock levels, price reductions and improving mortgage conditions all favour proactive buyers, especially those prepared to move before the post-Budget rebound.

For Landlords and Investors:

A hesitant sales market often strengthens rental demand. With affordability pressures ongoing and tenant demand historically high across Essex and Suffolk, the current climate remains fertile for well-placed investment.

Talk to the Experts Who Understand This Market Inside Out

At Boydens, we blend over five decades of heritage with leading market insight to ensure our clients make confident decisions, whatever the wider economic climate.

Whether you're considering selling, buying, renting or investing, our local experts are on hand in Colchester, Sudbury, Frinton, Kelvedon, and Chelmsford to guide you through every step.

📞 Get in touch today and let Boydens help you make your move with confidence.